Ex-Nascar Driver Bryan Clauson Dies at 27

Bryan Clauson, a sprint car specialist who made 26 career starts in the NASCAR XFINITY Series, died Sunday following injuries sustained in a crash. He was 27 years old.

Clauson was racing in the 39th Belleville Midget Nationals when he made contact with another car. His car flipped over several times before being struck by another vehicle.

He was airlifted to a nearby hospital but succumbed to his injuries late Sunday. His death was confirmed on Monday morning at Indianapolis Motor Speedway, where a statement from the family was read.

“Our Bryan fought to the end with the same desire that he demonstrated behind the wheel of all the various race cars he would park in victory lane.”

“However, we were more proud of our Bryan that took a moment to make a young fan’s day, or demonstrated his uncommon kindness and appreciation toward his friends, family and fans.”

NASCAR Executive Vice President and Chief Racing Development Officer Steve O’Donnell said in a statement.

“NASCAR extends its sincere condolences to the family and friends of Bryan Clauson, a passionate competitor whose love for racing fueled his unmatched positive spirit. He was a dear friend to many in the racing community, and he was loved and respected by all who knew him. He touched the lives of so many in our motorsports family, and his warm presence and relentless enthusiasm will be missed.”

USAC President Kevin Miller added that, “This is truly one of the darkest days in the history of the U.S. Auto Club.”

Bryan Clauson was a seven-time champion across three divisions of USAC racing. He also was champion of the prestigious Chili Bowl Nationals in 2014 and scored a win in the ARCA stock-car series in 2007 at Gateway Motorsports Park.